Washington: Colville Tribes' proposed casino in Pasco draws opposition from neighboring tribes

A heated virtual hearing hosted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs on April 24 shed light on the simmering tensions surrounding the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation's proposal to construct a casino in Pasco, Washington.

Lasting four hours, the session delved into the contentious plan, which encompasses a casino along with a hotel, event center, and restaurants, drawing vehement opposition from neighboring tribes.

Ruth Jim, a council member of the Confederated Tribes of the Yakama Nation, voiced staunch opposition during the hearing, warning: “You’re going to start an Indian war.”

The Yakama Nation, in conjunction with the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR), contests the Colville’s assertion of land rights dating back to 1855, fearing territorial disputes and adverse economic impacts from the proposed casino.

Spanning 184 acres near the King City Truck Stop, the Colville’s ambitious development marks a milestone as the tribe's inaugural foray into the Tri-Cities area and their fourth casino venture overall.

While awaiting federal and Washington state approval, the project seeks to broaden economic prospects for the tribe, complementing their existing 12 Tribes casinos in northern locales like Chelan, Grand Coulee, and Omak.

Local officials, including Pasco Mayor Matt Watkins, have thrown their support behind the endeavor, touting its potential to generate jobs and boost tourism. Collaborative agreements between the city and the tribe have been signed to address civic concerns, including emergency service management for the proposed site.

Nevertheless, leaders from the Yakama and CTUIR caution that the new casino could jeopardize their own gambling establishments, which serve as vital economic drivers for their communities.

Letisha Peterson, General Manager for Legends Resort and Casino, and Alan Tovey of Wildhorse Resort and Casino, underscored the cooperative spirit among tribal casinos and the challenges posed by fresh competition.

Amidst the debate, the Bureau of Indian Affairs is soliciting public feedback on the environmental implications of the proposed casino, with a keen eye on assessing potential community and environmental ramifications.

The comment period, slated to close on May 3, will inform the scope of the environmental impact statement, shaping the trajectory of the proposal.